Method for defining a standardized procedure for a haircut, a code for defining a haircut, and a method for giving a haircut

ABSTRACT

A method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut comprises defining two or more sections of hair on a subject, defining two or more geographic checkpoints on the group consisting of the face, head, neck, and body, wherein each of the geographic checkpoints is generic to a large number of subjects, and defining at least one vector hairway, wherein the at least one vector hairway corresponds to one of the sections of hair and two or more of the geographic checkpoints, further wherein the at least one vector hairway defines a path upon which hair is cut. A code for use in defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut and a method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure are also disclosed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of cutting hair and, more particularly, to techniques for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The human head includes about 100,000 strands of hair on average with each strand constantly growing at a rate around one and one half centimeter per month. This constant growth requires cutting on average of every 4 to 6 weeks, but that requirement depends on the individual and the appearance they wish to present. Therefore, individuals make frequent trips to beauty salons to receive haircuts.

When an individual goes to a beauty salon for a haircut, they may or may not have some idea about what type of haircut they desire. If the individual has never had their haircut by a particular beautician, that individual will have to verbally explain to the beautician what type of haircut they desire and may even use pictures of themselves or models to further explain themselves. Even if the individual has been to a particular beautician before, that customer may desire a different haircut which will require verbal explanation and optionally the use of pictures of models. The photograph of a haircut will only give a rough idea of the haircut's shape and it is difficult for beauticians to analyze a haircut off a picture alone. Even if the customer desires the same haircut it received during a previous trip to the same beautician, it will be difficult for the beautician to exactly replicate the results on memory alone or even with the assistance of a photograph.

Therefore, there exists the problem of unreliability in the communications between a customer and a beautician which can lead to the customer feeling dissatisfied with the results of the haircut. Additionally, there exists a problem of reproducibility for a beautician trying to repeat a haircut he or she performed in the past.

Therefore, there is a need for defining and giving a haircut which is reliable and reproducible. Further, there is a need for a system which will give a reliable and reproducible description of a haircut.

Additionally, there are problems in teaching interested individuals how to cut hair. The current conventional techniques and methods of haircutting require artistic ability because of the lack of a logical, mechanical process for haircutting and the lack of precise communications, reliability, and reproducibility discussed herein. Therefore, there is a need for a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut to allow individuals with less artistic ability to cut hair.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The advantages of the present invention will be set forth in and apparent from the description that follows, as well as will be learned from the practice of the invention. Additional advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the methods and systems particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as from the appending drawings.

To achieve these and other advantages, techniques for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, two or more sections of hair on a subject are defined, two or more geographic checkpoints on the face, head, neck, and/or body are defined, and at least one vector hairway corresponding to one of the sections of hair and two or more of the geographic checkpoints is defined, so that the at least one vector hairway defines a path upon which hair is cut.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a code for use in defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut is provided. A number of sections of hair on a subject, a plurality of geographic checkpoints on the face, head, neck, and/or body, and at least one vector hairway which corresponds to one of the sections of hair and two or more of the geographic checkpoints, are include in the code so that the vector hairway defines a path upon which hair is cut.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure is provided. In one arrangement, two or more sections of hair on a subject are identified from predetermined information, two or more geographic checkpoints on the face, head, neck, and/or body are identified from predetermined information, and at least one vector hairway corresponding to one of the sections of hair and two or more of the geographic checkpoints is identified from predetermined information.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention claimed.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide further understanding of the method and system of the invention. Together with the description, the drawings serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further appreciation of the above and other advantages, reference is made to the following detailed description and to the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary subject showing checkpoints in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 2 a, 2 b, 2 c, 2 d, and 2 e are tables illustrating one embodiment of a code legend in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an exemplary subject showing a construction section model in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 4 is one embodiment of a formula in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a front view of a subject showing layering in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a functional diagram showing a PG point in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a functional diagram showing a PG segment in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 8 a and 8 b are functional diagrams showing shifting in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 9 is an abbreviated shifting table in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of an exemplary hair system engineering device in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 13 is an exemplary check list in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the hair is divided into sections of hair. Particularly, the hair can be divided into two or more sections of hair. The number of sections of hair will depend on the type of haircut and the desired precision of the haircut. It should be understood that as the number of sections of hair is increased, the precision of the haircut will increase, but the length of time it takes to perform the haircut will also increase.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the geographic checkpoints can be located on the face, head, neck, and/or body and can be assigned or labeled with a system of symbols, letters, words or numbers. The geographic checkpoints are generic to a large number of subjects because they are defined by landmarks or parts of the body which are found on the subjects.

For example, but without limitation and referring now to FIG. 1, the “N” checkpoints are all located on a vertical line situated at the center of the face and which divides the face in half. As shown in FIG. 1, the N checkpoints 101, 102, 103, etc. begin at the center of the hairline and continue down the forehead passing along the middle of the nose and the center of the lips. The N1 checkpoint, 101, is located at the top of the forehead at the base of the hairline. The N2 checkpoint, 102, is located at the middle of the forehead. The N3 checkpoint, 103, is located at the level of the upper point of the eyebrow. The N4 checkpoint, 104, is located at the level of the upper point of the eyeball. The N5 checkpoint, 105, is located at the level of the middle of the eye. The N6 checkpoint, 106, is located at the level of the bottom of the eyeball. The N7 checkpoint, 107, is located at the level of the middle point of the nose along its length. The N8 checkpoint, 108, is located at the tip of the nose. The N9 checkpoint, 109, is located at the base of the nose. The N10 checkpoint, 110, is located at the upper part of the lips. The N11 checkpoint, 111, is located at the middle of the lips (between the upper and lower lip). The N12 checkpoint, 112, is located at the bottom of the lip. The N13 checkpoint, 113, is located at the middle of the chin. The N14 checkpoint, 114, is located at the tip of the chin. The N15 checkpoint, 115, is located at lowest point of the chin (or at a point just below the chin).

It should be noted that that a checkpoint may have its location along its checkpoint's vertical line, but at a level based on another checkpoints. For example, the N15 checkpoint is located along the N vertical line but at a level of the X15 checkpoint (defined herein). Additionally, intermediate checkpoints could be included using the same principles of naming and at a location between two or more defined points.

For example and without limitation, the “X” checkpoints are located on a vertical line starting at the hairline and extending vertically down through the center of the eye to the side of the chin. X1 is located at the hairline. X2 is located at the middle of the forehead. X3 is located at the top of the eyebrow. X4 is located at the top of eyeball. X5 is located at the middle of the eye. X6 is located at the bottom of eyeball. X7 is located at the level of the middle of the nose. X8 is located at the level of the tip of the nose. X9 is located at the level of the bottom of the nose. X10 is located at the level of the top of the upper lip. X11 is located at the level of the middle of the lips (between the upper and lower lip). X12 is located at the level of the bottom of the bottom lip. X13 is located at the level of the middle of the chin. X14 is located at the level of the tip of the chin. X15 is located at lowest point of the chin along the X vertical line.

For example and without limitation, the “T” checkpoints are located on a vertical line half way between the center of the eyeball and the ear hole and which extends from the hairline vertically down to a point at the same level as the lowest checkpoint on the N and X checkpoints (e.g. N15 and X15). Each T checkpoint is located along the vertical line with T1 located at the hair line and the rest of the T checkpoints at the same level as the corresponding N and X checkpoints.

For example and without limitation, the “E” checkpoint line is a vertical line that runs from the hairline just above the tip of the ear down vertically to the clavicle. E1 is located on the hairline which may be just above, just below, or at the same level as the highest point on the ear. E2 is located at the highest point on the ear. E3 is located at the point halfway between the highest point on the ear and the middle of the ear. E4 is located at the middle of the ear (level of the tragus). E5 is located at the halfway point between the tragus and the bottom of the ear lobe (intertragical notch). E6 is located at the bottom of the ear lobe. E7 is located at the level of the angle of the jaw. E8 is located at the level of the chin tip. E9 is located at the middle of the neck. E10 is located at the clavicle.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a vector hairway corresponding to a section of hair may be defined by connecting at least two checkpoints to one another by an imaginary line, which is used as a guideline along which the hair of that section is cut. For example, but without limitation, a vector hairway could consist of lines connecting the N8 checkpoint to the E12 checkpoint to the C4 checkpoint. The imaginary line connecting those points is used as a guide to cut the corresponding section of hair along.

The subject may be a living human being. Alternatively, the subject may be an animal such as a dog or the like. Alternatively, the subject may be a mannequin.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the method of defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut can include at least one verification procedure that corresponds to one of the sections of hair.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a code may be used to define the standardized procedure for the predetermined haircut. Additionally, a written formula can define the standardized procedure for the predetermined haircut. For example, but without limitation, the code and/or the written formula can include symbols, letters, words, and numbers. For example, symbols, letters, words or numbers can define each of the sections of hair and each of the geographic checkpoints.

A photograph of a haircut will only give a hair beautician a rough idea of that haircut's shape and does not provide the beautician with the engineering infrastructure necessary to create the haircut. By using the coded formula in accordance with the invention, the hair beautician will have an exact description of the haircut. The code design is complex enough to be able to record not only the exact shape of a haircut but also the exact procedure for creating the haircut.

For example, but without limitation, the code can be a unique language for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut or communicating a haircut called the Universal Code of Haircutting (“UCH”). This code can be used to communicate, translate, record, and transmit any kind of haircut in a short time and accurately. The use of the code is a scientific approach to conceive and engineer haircuts. The code gives the complete infrastructure and ability to “code” or define any haircut quickly, accurately, easily, and with precision without using lengthy sentences, drawing, and/or pictures. The code is a language in itself and a tool to communicate in a worldwide common coded language designed mainly for current and future professional hair beauticians to define a haircut, although it can also be used for hair styling, hair extensions, and any other suitable applications. The meaning and translation of the code is presented herein in the English language, but it could be translated in any other language as well, without changing the code itself. The UCH can include a formula (coded formula) that describes the exact shape of a haircut and the way it is made. The code is practical, meaningful, and purposeful and involves, and is in part based on, checkpoints on the face, head, neck, and body, as described herein, which are defined by landmarks or parts of the body.

In a further aspect of the invention, the code can include a vector hairway, corresponding to a section of hair, which is defined from a plurality of checkpoints and forms an imaginary line upon which the section of hair is cut. The vector hairway may have a general trend in its shape such that it is generally somewhat regular. A change of the trend in the general shape of the vector hairway may be interpreted as or form an angle that could be used as a reference angle.

The code can include a plurality of hair categories, for example but without limitation, including: straight hair, slightly wavy hair, very wavy hair, curly hair, very curly hair, frizzy hair, and mixtures of the foregoing. The code also can include a plurality of hair classes, sizes, or thicknesses including: very fine hair, fine hair, normal hair, thick hair, or very thick hair. The code also can include a plurality of hair types including: African, European, American, and Asian. The code also can include a plurality of hair styles or lengths including: very short, short, medium, long, and very long. The code also can include a plurality of parts including: a middle part, left part, right part, diagonal left part, diagonal right part, and any of these can be either a straight part of a zigzag part. The code also can include a plurality of hair or color intensities including: very light, light, medium, dark, and very dark.

The code can also include a plurality of fundamental haircut types including blunt, slanted (or angled), layered, or mixtures thereof, and the fundamental hair types are distinguishable from one another. In the blunt cut, each section of hair, under the influence of gravity, is pulled down straight from its point of growth and cut on the same level and along the same vector hairway such that the hair mass is distributed on a horizontal plane. In the blunt cut, there is no slant and no layering. In the slanted cut, each section of hair, under the influence of gravity, is pulled down straight from its point of growth and cut on the same line of cut or vector hairway defined by at least two checkpoints which are separated both vertically and laterally such that the hair mass is distributed on a slanted plane. In the slanted cut, the total hair mass is not blunt and is not layered. In the layered cut, each section of hair, under the influence of gravity, is pulled down straight from its point of growth and is cut on a different level than the proceeding section of hair. In the layered cut, the total hair masse is not blunt and is not slanted and each hair end from one level should not meet an end of a hair from an adjacent level. The fundamental haircut types are the basics of haircutting and are quintessential to well performed haircuts. Each fundamental haircut types could be performed in different haircut styles, such as short, medium, or long. The fundamental haircut types could be combined. For example, a haircut could be a mixture of blunt, layered, and slanted.

The expression of a formula describing a haircut can include signs, symbols, letters, words and/or numbers. For example, the signs, symbols, letters, words and/or numbers can be selected under the influence of the medium being treated including describing the shape and structure of a haircut. For example, but without limitation and as shown in FIGS. 2 a, 2 b, 2 c, 2 d, and 2 e, a legend for a code in accordance with the invention is shown.

It should be understood that one or more components of the code or formula can be changed without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, a change or modification of a code component could be related to the writing customs and habits of a different country in order to have the appearance of that code easily recognizable in that country.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a construction section model defines the plurality of sections of hair by dividing the hair into sections according to a plurality of construction section lines. For example, the construction models can divide the hair in different ways and thus have different configurations or patterns depending on the haircut desired. In one embodiment of the invention, a construction section model can have a code sign or symbol with a number color coded to define it. For example, the symbol can be a letter “M” and construction models M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, etc. can be defined. Several patterns of construction sections are necessary today with the numerous choices of haircuts and to allow for haircuts to be developed in the future.

Each construction section model may include a plurality of construction section lines which divide the hair into sections, and the construction section model and lines may be part of the fundamental tools used to build a haircut. The construction lines can serve several responsibilities. For example, the construction lines are used in determining the general shape of the haircut style and building the foundation of that haircut. The construction lines call the beginning and routing of layers and sequence the layering system, if layers are desired. The construction lines guide the procedure for giving the haircut via an established pattern and provide an easy mechanism to proceed to next section of hair in logical sequence. The construction lines provide a safety mechanism because the hair beautician will not cut what doesn't need to be cut. The construction lines are a practical method since the hair beautician will be cutting section after section and therefore not coping with the entire hair mass at one time. The construction lines provide reliability, even of multiple configurations, because the hair beautician can go back to a previous section in order to correct an error or problem.

The construction section lines should be adaptable to the length and shape of a haircut. Certain features of a haircut may require different patterns of the construction sections. The construction sections could originate from one checkpoint. For the purpose of illustration and not limitation, a sample pattern of the construction sections will be provided, displayed, and explained. It should be understood, however, that this embodiments is not limiting and that changes could be made to the construction sections without departing from the principle and spirit of the invention. Referring now to FIG. 3, for example and without limitation, a construction section model, M1, is shown. For example, the construction sections can be named e.g., B1, B2, etc., shown as 321, 322, etc. in FIG. 3, and P1, P2, etc., shown as 331, 332, etc. in FIG. 3, to resolve the crucial problem of subjectively. Naming the construction sections allows the hair beautician to know what point or location of hair he or she is working with.

For example but without limitation, the P construction sections may stand for the peripheral construction sections. P1, shown as 331 in FIG. 3, is the first peripheral section of hair located between the hairline and some chosen line P1 which is responsible for the total or partial outline or shape of the haircut as well as for determining the thickness of the outer shape of the haircut. P1 can be made of straight or curved lines or a combination of both, but ultimately the lines are curved because they lie on the scalp of a head that is curved. The design of P1 is related to the fundaments of a haircut and the positioning is influenced by the natural and or unnatural shape of the hairline. P1 could have its datum outside the growing hair area depending on the subject. In most cases, P1 is constructed through the front or face area as well as the back area. P1 could have and usually has co-construction sections lines including P2, P3, etc. The design of P1 is selected based on the thickness and density of the hair mass and represents a cushion to secure the haircut outline when beginning layering, if layering is desired.

P1 is generally the most important of the peripheral construction section lines. The number of P construction sections could be extensive but reasonable. In one particular embodiment, there is five or six construction section lines. Another embodiment could include more sections, which would result in an increase in the refinement or precision level of the haircut, but would require more time in the haircutting process. The construction sections should be reasonably distributed evenly over the head. Therefore, when defining a construction section model, the total number of constructions sections desired should be considered before determining the location of construction section lines.

The use of the P construction sections is a safety measure and results in a precise and accurate haircut. Besides offering safety, the construction sections allow the haircutter an easy way to find and recognize where he or she has temporarily stopped cutting. Therefore, in addition to describing the infrastructure of a haircut within the haircut formula, the P construction lines also help find the exact location where a haircut should be continued in the event that it had been previously stopped.

P2, shown as 332 in FIG. 3, could be responsible for a substitute or additional section to make a substitute, new, and/or supplementary haircut base. P2 can include the same features described with respect to P1 herein. The distance from P2 to P1 is dependent on the haircut chosen, the precision desired, the thickness and density of the hair mass, and the total number of construction sections desired.

The pattern of construction sections can be drawn on a mannequin head in order to get a better visual of their configuration. The example discussed herein is not limiting and other examples cover different patterns which can be used to define a large number of haircut styles which are available today. The different construction section models are adapted and engineered in accordance with the fundamentals of a haircut discussed herein. Different configuration of construction section models are possible including a mixture of models.

The construction sections can be further divided into subsections (e.g. B 1/2, B1+½, etc.) in order to increase the quality control of haircutting, and the subsections would be based on the same principles of the construction sections described herein.

In a further aspect of the invention, a haircut formula may be used to define a haircut. For example but without limitation, FIG. 4 shows an example of a formula which defines a predetermined haircut. Mathematicians, scientists, and engineers have all agreed on a certain order in which operations should be performed when they operate together in an expression. As a rule of thumb, regarding the expression of the haircut formula, the hair beautician spends the majority of their time standing at the back side of their customer. Therefore, right and left in the formula is based as if the hair beautician is positioned at the back of the customer who is facing in the same direction. All expressions in the haircut formula will be different and should be read left to right. For example, the beginning of a haircut formula which can describe the actual cutting procedure will always be read left to right in a logical sequence and progressively to the end of the haircut formula. Simplification or minimization of the writing of the formula expression can be made by the use of parentheses, brackets, braces, and omission of repeated elements but are not necessary to the expression of the haircut formula and should not, if not used, create an ambiguity.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure is provided. The method includes identifying two or more sections of hair on a subject from predetermined information, identifying two or more geographic checkpoints on the face, head, neck, and/or body from the predetermined information, and identifying at least one vector hairway corresponding to one of the sections of hair and two or more of the geographic checkpoints. The method can further include using the at least one vector hairway as a pathway to cut the corresponding section of hair.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, Orthocoralogie (or Orthocorêlogie) is defined as cutting hair in a correct and logical way. Orthocoralogie is a teaching tool and a learning toolkit to demystify the world of hair cutting which approaches the subject in a more technical and methodical way discussed herein which will result in accurate and reproducible haircuts.

The method of giving a haircut can further include identifying at least one verification procedure which corresponds to one of the sections of hair, and performing the at least one verification procedure for the corresponding section of hair. For example, the hair beautician can perform a verification procedure when finished cutting one section of hair before proceeding to the next section. There are several ways to verify a haircut. For example, the beautician can see if the section of hair just cut matches or is consistent with adjacent hair that has been previously cut. For example, one method of verification involves pulling the section hair just cut flat against the head to see if the line of cut is regular. Alternatively, another method of verification involves verifying that the hair has been cut correctly by moving in the opposite direction of the cut and checking if the hair just cut is consistent with that previously cut. If the verification procedure results in an error, the hair beautician will go back to the starting point of the current section before proceeding to the next section.

The method of giving a haircut can further include using the section of hair that bas been cut along the at least one vector hairway as a base to cut another section of hair. For example, the section of hair between the hairline and the first construction line (e.g., P1) can be used a guideline for cutting another section of hair (e.g., P2).

Further and in accordance with another aspect of the invention, if a layered haircut is desired, the method of giving a haircut can further include using the section of hair that has been cut along the at least one vector hairway as a base to layer another section of hair upon. For example, the section of hair between the hairline and the first construction line (e.g., P1) can be used a guideline or base for layering another section of hair, but P1 is not necessarily the only guideline for executing a layering haircut. Another section of hair can be combined to that section in order to evaluate and perform a layered haircut successfully.

The method of giving a haircut can further include using the section of hair that has been cut along the at least one vector hairway as a base to cut a transition section of another section of hair. For example but without limitation, FIG. 5 shows a layered haircut in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. For example, to perform a layered haircut in accordance with the invention, the beautician first cuts section P1 along the corresponding vector hairway. The beautician next puts and holds the upper portion of section P1 in his or her hand to use as a reference point or segment to cut the next section of hair (e.g., P2). The beautician then takes a portion of the next section of hair, called a transition section, and lifts and pulls that section of hair from its natural position influenced by gravity to cut at the same length as the reference segment of hair (e.g., P1) which is also lifted from its natural position. The point or segment where the cutting action takes place is called the PG point or PG segment, respectively. For example and without limitation, FIG. 6 shows the PG point and FIG. 7 shows the PG segment. Since the hair is attached to the scalp by a root, that root point of attachment becomes the point where the hair is able to pivot when pulled straight and moved in any direction and is known as the point of origin. The hair can be pulled such that it is perpendicular to a plane tangent to the head at the point of origin. Alternatively, the hair could be pulled horizontally or any other direction. When the hair is released from being pulled, lifted and cut, it will fall to its natural position, but in a layered configuration with the next section of hair (e.g., P2) appearing shorter than the reference section of hair partly because of the curvature of the head. Thus the result of the layering action, as shown in FIG. 5, is that each hair lies on top of another one and each end of hair of the next section doesn't meet the end of the reference hair.

The PG segment of cut, as shown in FIG. 7, is the segment of hair strands to be cut in reference to another segment of hairstrands previously cut (in a process called cutting on the cord). The PG segment of cut usually originates from a cord created in the vector hairway (in a process called cutting the cord). If the PG segment of cut originating from the vector hairway is in turn used as a reference segment to cut another transition section of hair, then that segment cut would originate from the set of hairstrands of the transition section of the construction section cut which originated from the vector hairway. Therefore, the PG segment of cut can be based on three elements including the vector hairway, the cord chosen in the vector hairway, and the adjacent set of hair strands comprised between one or more construction sections and transition sections which were cut along the cord of the vector hairway. These elements are part of the master layering program which begins when the PG segment is cut based on a cord in the vector hairway.

The true point of cut is the point or vertex where at least two hair strands pulled straight connect and form an angle. The actual point of cut is the point located farther away from the true point of cut which results from the element obstructing (e.g. fingers of the beautician or other tools) cutting at the true point of cut. Similarly, the true segment of cut is the segment where at least four hair strands pulled straight connect to from a segment, shown as 701 in FIG. 7. The actual segment of cut, shown as 702 in FIG. 7, is the segment of cut located farther away from the true segment of cut which results from the element obstructing (e.g. fingers of the beautician or other tools) cutting at the true segment of cut.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a transition section scaling system is disclosed. As discussed herein, when a layered haircut is desired and after a base section (e.g., P1) has been cut along a vector hairway, the hair beautician will cut next section of hair (e.g., P2) using transition sections. For example, starting at the center of the front of the subject, the beautician will put the top section of P1 already cut in his hand to use as a reference segment to cut the next section directly above it. The beautician will then pull a transition section of hair from the next section P2 and cut at the same length as the reference section. For example, the transition section may be a square section of hair which is a portion of P2. Alternatively, the transition section could be a rectangle, rhombus, parallelogram, trapezoid, any other quadrilateral, triangle, or other suitable portion of P2. As such, the lines that define the transition sections intersect the construction sections at any angle. Further, the size of the transition section of P2 can vary as desired and depending on the density of hair, with a smaller transition section size yielding a more precise or refined haircut but requiring a longer amount of time to cut.

Further, the number of transition sections for each construction section can vary according to a transition section scaling system. For example, but without limitation, level N° 1 of the scaling system represents the maximum number of transition sections possible for each construction section (which will equal the number of hairs in that construction section) and is used more in theory than in practice. Level N° 2 of the scaling system includes more than 15 but 20 or less sections. Level N° 3 of the scaling system includes more than 10 but 15 or less sections. Level N° 4 of the scaling system includes more than 5 but 10 or less sections. Level N° 5 of the scaling system includes more than 2 but 5 or less. Level N° 6 of the scaling system includes 2 or less sections. Use of transition sections help to perform a precise haircut by allowing the hair beautician control in moving laterally within the construction section and in moving laterally and upward or laterally and downward for multidirectional control. The use of transition sections also help to smooth transitions from one construction section to another.

The transition section can be shifted in or out before being cut. For example, but without limitation, FIG. 8 a shows one embodiment of the invention demonstrating shifting in and FIG. 8 b shows one embodiment of the invention demonstrating shifting in and out. The formula for a haircut can include a sequencing shifting table which lists the shifting for each section of hair. As discussed herein, when a layered haircut is desired and after a base section (e.g., P1) has been cut along a vector hairway, the hair beautician will pull a transition section of the next section of hair (e.g., P2). That transition section of hair can be shifted in to meet the reference point or segment of hair before being cut, as shown in FIG. 8 a.

Alternatively, that transition section of hair can be held and the reference point or segment of the base can be shifted out to meet the transition section of hair to be cut, or shifted in partially and the reference point or segment of the base can be shifted out such that it meets the transition section to be cut and forms a triangle. If the shifting in of the transition section equals the shifting out of the reference point or segment than an isosceles triangle will be formed, as shown in FIG. 8 b, but if the shifting is not equal a non-isosceles triangle will be formed. For example, but without limitation, the shifting can be defined in an abbreviated shifting table as shown in FIG. 9. For example and as shown in FIG. 9, H^(REF) represents the hair strands used as a reference segment of cut, H represents the hair strands to be cut, S¹ represents shifting in, M represents making the correct match, and C represents cutting. Shifting is used to proceed in evenly layering the hair or could be used in order to increase or decrease hair mass in a chosen area or to design certain shapes of the layered area.

The head of a subject may be divided into a positive, negative, and neutral plane region. The positive plane region includes the top portion of the head extending down until point where the plane tangent to the head is vertical; past that point, the head begins to curve in. The negative plane region includes the portion of the head below the point where the plane tangent to the head is vertical. The neutral plane region is located at the point where the tangent to the head is vertical. Thus, layering may be desired in either the positive, negative, or neutral plane.

Further, the method of giving a haircut can further include using the one vector hairway as a path to cut more than one of the sections of hair. If a blunt haircut is desired, the method of giving a haircut can further include using the one vector hairway as a path to cut all of the sections of hair.

A haircut can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. For example, the right and left sides of the haircut can be the same or can be different. For example and if an asymmetrical haircut is desired, the vector hairway corresponding to P1 can be different for the left side than for the right side.

The method of giving a haircut can further include using a code to define the standardized procedure, and the predetermined information can be a formula. For example, but without limitation, the formula can include symbols, letters, words and numbers and can include any of the features discussed previously herein. Also, the subject can be a human, an animal, a mannequin, or any other suitable subject.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a distribution center and/or sector (“D.C.S.”) is defined and described. The D.C.S. indicates a specified point on the head upon which a 360° pivotal circulation of hair emanates from. There may be zero, one or more D.C.S. created or defined for each haircut, with the most common or main D.C.S. located at the vertical axis at the center of the top of the head. For example, in a symmetric haircut, the main D.C.S. point is used to evenly distribute the hair mass 360° around the vertical axis at the center of the top of the head. The main D.C.S. sometimes marks the end of a hair cut, where it is possible that the hair is the longest and cut at the furthest distance from the point of origin. As such, the hair beautician should take extra care to judge the spacing properly to achieve the highest quality haircut, especially if layering is desired. Additionally, a limited distribution sector (“L.D.S.”) may be defined and indicates a specified point on the head upon which a less than 360° pivotal circulation of hair emanates from. There may be zero, one or more L.D.S. created or defined for each haircut. Similarly, a distribution line segment (“D.L.S.”) may be defined and indicates a specified line on the head upon which pivotal circulations of hair emanate from on either side. The D.L.S. is not restricted in its position and there may be zero, one or more D.L.S. created or defined for each haircut. A D.L.S. may be located where a part of the hair is desired. The D.L.S. may be used, for example, in defining an asymmetrical haircut by locating it at any position other than the center of the head.

It should be understood that geometric assumptions and simplifications were made in the descriptions discussed herein. For example, all triangles, quadrilaterals, and straight lines discussed herein may be slightly curved in reality because of the spherical nature of the human head. For example and with respect to the universal haircutting method, the concept of “straightness” must be modified, since non-straight lines or segments are found on the scalp. For example, the shortest distance between two points on the surface of the human head is actually an arc on the scalp, which is different than the straight line which connects the two points in space. What is not possible on the surface of head may be possible when hairs are pulled away from the scalp and into space. Therefore, when hair along a straight segment line is pulled from the scalp and cut along a straight line in space, this is called cutting the cord. In cutting the cord, the curve of the scalp will have an effect on the length of the hair such that the hairs in the center of the segment will be shorter than hairs at the ends of the segment and this effect should be taken into consideration when performing a haircut. When hair along a straight segment line is pulled from the scalp and is cut along a reference segment of hair already cut, this is called cutting on the cord. Vector hairways discussed previously herein are also actually curved because they are defined by points on the human head which is spherical. Since the vector hairways can have different sizes, they will have different sizes of arc and the corresponding cords will be different and are proportional to the arc rate of turn.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a thinning ratio is disclosed and defined. Thinning a section of hair involves cutting a portion of the hairs of the section shorter than the desired length of the section and may be performed by using a specialized scissors. The reasons to thin a hair mass include reducing the hair density, obtaining a style effect (e.g. a shag effect or dimensional effect), and/or a textural effect or a combination of the reasons. For example, and without limitation, the code or formula for a haircut can include a thinning ratio that can be defined as the length to be thinned over the amount of hair growth during a given time. The thinning ratio selected will determine the amount the hair density is reduced and the amount of dimensional effect given to the hair. If the hair beautician is working with previous customer, the hair beautician may have a good idea of the rate of growth of the customer's hair. Otherwise, the hair beautician may have to estimate growth. Alternatively, the hair beautician may measure the hair so that he or she will have accurate knowledge of the growth rate the next time the customer returns. Specifically, the fundamental unit of hair growth may be defined as a hair growth unit which is the length of hair growth over a four week period (e.g. equal to 1 and ¼ cm). The hair growth unit of a client is important to consider when determining the desired thinning ratio. If the customer knows he or she will not want any dimensional effect in his or her next hair cut, the hair beautician should choose an appropriate thinning ratio. For example, if the thinning ratio is 2, it would take eight weeks for the hair to grow to the point where it could be cut at the original length and eliminate the thinning effect. Properly selecting the thinning ratio allows the hair beautician to have control which the customer will recognize, and thus the hair beautician will gain the respect and trust of the customer.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the method of giving a haircut and/or the code for defining a haircut can further include shaving a section of the hair. For example, but without limitation, a code may be used to identify the length at which the hair should be shaved. For example but without limitation, H⁰ is completely shaved, H^(+2 mm) is shaved 2 millimeters long or less, H^(+5 mm) is shaved 5 millimeters long or less, etc. Additionally, the code includes a symbol (shown in FIG. 2 d) which expresses a smooth transition from one length to another such that the length becomes progressively longer which creates a blending effect between the sections of hair. For example, the definition for a haircut may include that, in the back of the neck area, the hair from the hairline to B¼ be shaved, the hair from B¼ to B½ is H^(+2 mm), and the smoothing symbol is used to indicate that the hair will get progressively longer between B¼ and B½ with a length of 0 mm at B¼ and a length of 2 mm at B½.

FIG. 10 shows a flow diagram of one example of an embodiment of the invention in compliance with a plan of action for a haircut. First, the beautician should set the vector hairway and verify and adjust it if necessary, 1001. Next the beautician should set the next construction section, 1002. The beautician then should set the next transition section, preferably starting on the left side of the half way area boundary, 1003. Next, the beautician should set the cord, 1004, the PG segment of cut, 1005, and the mechanical shifting program, 1006. The beautician then cuts the section of hair and verifies it, 1007. The beautician then repeats 1003 though 1007 for each transition section of hair on that side of the half way area boundary, 1008. Next, the beautician should proceed to the other side of the half way area boundary, 1009, and repeat 1003 through 1008, 1010. The beautician should then verify that the left side and the right side match, assuming a symmetric cut is desired, 1011. The beautician should then proceed to the next construction section, 1012. The beautician should repeat steps 1003-1012 for all remaining construction sections, 1013. The beautician then proceeds to the final center of distribution and or segment of distribution and verifies, 1014. The beautician should make final verifications, 1015, and proceed to a dimensional program, 1016, and styling, 1017, if desired.

FIG. 11 shows a flow diagram of another embodiment of the invention involving planning a haircut. The beautician should familiarize himself or herself with the client profile, 1101, and the client's hair type, category, and class, 1102. Next the beautician should analyze the quality of the haircut desired, 1103, and communicate and exchange ideas of what can be performed with the client, 1104. The beautician then should decide on a choice of haircut, 1105, and establish a plan of action including the building phases of the haircut, 1106. Next, the beautician should record the phases of the haircut using the universal code of haircutting, 1107. The beautician should then confirm with the client what is going to be performed, 1108. The beautician should then proceed to performing the haircut (in accordance with, e.g., the technical flow chart shown in FIG. 10) in compliance with the recorded phases, 1109. The beautician should then verify that the haircut is in compliance with the plan of action and if necessary make proper adjustments and final verifications 1110. Finally, the beautician should communicate with the customer to make sure that everything is in agreement with the plan of action and that all phases have been properly executed and that the client is satisfied, 1111.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a Haircut System Engineering Device (“HSED”) is disclosed which is used as a locator system for the code of the haircut. It is preferred that the HSED is a mannequin, made of any suitable material, that includes the human (or animal) head and/or part or all of the human (or animal) body. The HSED can be used to visualize, understand, and conceive shapes and the infrastructure of a haircut. For example but without limitation, an embodiment of a HSED, 1200, is shown in FIG. 12. As shown in FIG. 12, The HSED can have part or all of the checkpoints, 1202, discussed herein marked on it. The HSED can have part or all of the construction lines (e.g., P1), 1231, discussed herein marked on it. Additionally, the HSED can have any other part of code discussed herein marked on it. Further, the HSED can have strings, 1271, attached to it to represent strands of hair. Further, the strings can have flags, 1261, slidable on the strings to represent the point at which the hair is cut. Further, the HSED can also have pins or pegs at the checkpoints such that string can be wrapped around them to connect checkpoints to form and represent a vector hairway as discussed herein.

Polymethyl methacrylate (sold under the trade name Plexiglas®) may be used to surround or divide the mannequin head such that hair can be attached to the Plexiglas via suction cups or any other suitable connection. In one particular embodiment, two vertical sheets of Plexiglas, in an X pattern, are used to divide the mannequin head into quarters. In another embodiment, one horizontal sheet of Plexiglas is used to divide the mannequin head in two. Further a grid may be drawn on the Plexiglas. The Plexiglas may be used, for example, to help demonstrate three dimensional shifting of the hair.

The HSED helps to visualize in an easy and quick way and in three dimensions a haircut design and infrastructure and the names and locations of the checkpoints and any other components of the code discussed herein. The HSED can help to define locations of a problem that has or could occur. The HSED can help to understand the result of shifting strands of hair including the relative and apparent lengths of those strands of hair when displaced from their natural resting position.

The HSED gives the hair beautician the advantage of practicing, researching, or training without the interaction of a customer or live model that could result in stress to the hair beautician or customer. The HSED allows the hair beautician to stop and start his or her practice, research, or training at his or her convenience without having the stress and cost of studying a live model. The hair beautician can correct, change, start again, and ask for help if available as he or she wishes without cutting the hair of a live model or mannequin provided with hair (e.g., if the slidable flags are used).

A coordinate system may be defined and used to locate specific intersections based on the checkpoints, construction section lines, transition section lines, and any other areas discussed herein.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a teaching program is disclosed to school potential professional hair beauticians about the code of a haircut. For example, the program could lead to delivery of certificates and/or diplomas including, for example, a certificate of attendance, certificate of knowledge, diploma of knowledgeable application, master degree or the like. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the students can be taught the code to cut hair by using a text book in multiple languages, video tape, CD, DVD, or internet distribution of the same. Further, computer software may be used to show, explain, and build the infrastructure in multiple dimensions. For example, a computer program could implement the flow diagrams of FIGS. 10 and/or 11.

A hair beautician should follow a code of ethics to be a professional and responsible. For example, it is normal for a customer or student to have questions and those questions should be answered. If the question is difficult to answer, the hair beautician may need to refer to documentation or perform research. If the customer is someone not familiar with the haircutting method, then the beautician should not answer the question using technical language of the method because that language may not be understood and may be confusing to the customer. For example, a customer may ask how much his or her hair grows. The traditional answer is about one and one half centimeter per month, but the best and most accurate answer would be to actually take a measurement using a tool such a ruler. While the UCH discussed herein includes its own measurement system, a hair beautician should not be uncomfortable in actually taking measurements. Taking measurements can be done quickly and is a way of communicating accurate information to a customer. Giving true and accurate information to a customer will increase the customer's trust and confidence in the hair beautician.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a technique is disclosed which judges the accuracy of application of the haircut formula.

For example but without limitation, a check list based on observation of a hair beautician's client can include: first name, last name, date, hair category, hair type, hair size (class), hair style, section construction model, part, bang, existing formula (code), new formula (code), and special notations. Further, the check list can include simplified drawing views including right, left, top, back, and front views which can be used as a quick reference to give a general idea of a haircut's shape using a visual. Additionally and optionally, the check list can include a special design zone which can aid in showing a special shape or aspect of a hair cut which could be to complex too describe with a formula. For example, a check list in accordance with the invention is shown in FIG. 13.

It will be seen from the foregoing that the present invention provides a method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut, a code for use in defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut, and a method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure. Although a number of specific embodiments of the invention above have been illustrated, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art within the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, it will be evident that the scope of the invention is to be limited only as set forth in the appended claims. 

1. A method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut on a subject having hair, a face, a head, a neck, and a body comprising: A. defining two or more sections of hair on the subject; B. defining two or more geographic checkpoints on the group consisting of the face, head, neck, and body; and C. defining at least one vector hairway, corresponding to one of said sections of hair and two or more of said geographic checkpoints, wherein said at least one vector hairway defines a path upon which hair is to be cut.
 2. The method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut of claim 1, further comprising defining at least one verification procedure, corresponding to one of said sections of hair.
 3. The method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut of claim 1, wherein the subject is a living human.
 4. The method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut of claim 1, wherein said subject is an animal.
 5. The method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut of claim 1, wherein the subject is a mannequin.
 6. The method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut of claim 1, wherein A, B, and C are defined using a code.
 7. The method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut of claim 1, wherein a written formula defines A, B, and C.
 8. The method for defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut of claim 7, wherein said written formula includes symbols, letters, words and numbers.
 9. A code for use in defining a standardized procedure for a predetermined haircut on a subject having hair, a face, a head, a neck, and a body comprising: a plurality of sections of hair on the subject; a plurality of geographic checkpoints on the group consisting of the face, head, neck, and body; and at least one vector hairway, corresponding to one of said sections of hair and two or more of said geographic checkpoints, wherein said at least one vector hairways defines a path upon which hair is to be cut.
 10. The code for a haircut of claim 9, wherein a construction section model defines the plurality of sections of hair.
 11. The code for a haircut of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of hair types.
 12. The code for a haircut of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of hair thicknesses.
 13. The code for a haircut of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of hair lengths.
 14. The code for a haircut of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of hair intensities.
 15. The code for a haircut of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of hair parts.
 16. The code for a haircut of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of hair categories.
 17. The code for a haircut of claim 9, wherein each of said section of hair is defined using construction section lines.
 18. The code for a haircut of claim 9, wherein each of the said sections of hair is further divided using transition sections.
 19. A method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure to a subject having hair, a face, a head, a neck, and a body comprising: identifying two or more sections of hair on the subject from predetermined information; identifying two or more geographic checkpoints on the group consisting of the face, head, neck, and body from predetermined information; and identifying at least one vector hairway, corresponding to one of said sections of hair and two or more of said geographic checkpoints, from predetermined information.
 20. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 19, further comprising using said at least one vector hairway as a path to cut the corresponding section of hair.
 21. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 20, further comprising using said section of hair that has been cut along the said at least one vector hairway as a base to cut another said section of hair.
 22. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 20, further comprising using said section of hair that has been cut along the said at least one vector hairway as a base to layer another said section of hair upon.
 23. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 20, further comprising using said section of hair that has been cut along the said at least one vector hairway as a reference length to cut a transition section of another section of hair.
 24. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 23, further comprising that the transition section of hair is shifted before being cut.
 25. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 23, further comprising that the section of hair that has been cut to a reference length is shifted before cutting the transition section of hair.
 26. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 23, further comprising that the section of hair that has been cut to a reference length is shifted and the transition section of hair is shifted before being cut.
 27. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 20, further comprising using said the one vector hairway as a path to cut all of the said at least one sections of hair.
 28. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 19, wherein the predetermined information is a formula.
 29. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 19, further comprising identifying at least one verification procedure, corresponding to one of said sections of hair.
 30. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 29, further comprising performing said at least one verification procedure for said corresponding section of hair.
 31. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 19, wherein a code defines said standardized procedure.
 32. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 28, wherein said formula includes symbols, letters, words and numbers to define each of said sections of hair and each of said geographic checkpoints.
 33. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 19, wherein said subject is a human.
 34. The method for giving a haircut based upon a standardized procedure of claim 19, wherein said subject is an animal. 